Empyema of the gallbladder: a complication in the natural history of acute cholecystitis.

Empyema of the gallbladder was identified in 34 patients. Patients undergoing early operation without attempts at nonoperative treatment had less infectious morbidity and mortality. Delayed operative intervention, extrabiliary abscess, perforation of the gallbladder and common duct exploration are factors that contribute to increased risks in these patients.